British Battle Jerkin – Wareings ( N’ton) Ltd 1943

Original WWII British Battle Jerkin, also known as the Assault Jerkin, in good used condition. The Battle Jerkin was developed in 1942 by Colonel Rivers-MacPherson for the British Army and was introduced during the Second World War as an alternative to the standard Pattern 1937 web equipment. Rivers-MacPherson considered the existing webbing cumbersome for assault troops and designed an integrated garment that allowed essential equipment to be carried directly on the body. Constructed from heavy-duty brown canvas, the Battle Jerkin incorporated numerous sewn-in pockets and pouches for ammunition, grenades and other essential equipment. Battle Jerkins are particularly associated with British and Canadian assault troops during the Normandy campaign and can be seen in period photographs taken around the time of the D-Day landings in June 1944.

This example remains in good, original used condition and shows normal traces of wartime wear, uncleaned as found. The interior displays some staining consistent with age and use. The original maker and date markings have faded considerably through wear and staining; however, enough of the marking remains visible to identify the manufacturer as Wareings ( N’ton) Ltd, with a 1943 date and size Medium. The original strings and toggles are still present, as is the small integral pouch intended for the No. 4 rifle spike bayonet. The Battle Jerkin was produced in relatively small numbers during the war, with surviving examples dated 1942 and 1943 being known.

An attractive example that would be of particular interest to advanced collectors of British and Canadian WWII militaria.